Speeds measured with Stalker ProSports radar gun. Fuel consumption (gallons per hour) measured with Floscan digital fuel-flow meter on gas inboards, sterndrives, and outboards, TechMate electronic scan tool on gas EFI inboards, Caterpillar digital fuel-flow meter on diesel engines, or permanently installed fuel-monitoring equipment. Range is based on 90% of published fuel capacity. Sound levels determined using Radio Shack digital decibel meter on A scale. 68 dBA is the level of normal conversation.

Performance Chart

Test Conditions

Standard and Optional Equipment

Systems
Head: Portable
Trailer
Trim Tabs
Exterior Features
Hardtop
Outlet: 12-Volt Acc
Canvas
Camper Back

= Standard = Optional

A Classic with Modern Flare

Tested by Capt. Brandon DeNatale

I was recently able to test Bayliner’s 222 Classic at this year’s U.S. Marine dealer meeting near Ft. Myers. The 222 Classic is Bayliner’s entry-level cruiser intended to offer that first experience into overnighting and family boating fun. As such, she does a good job of providing the basic necessities to get you and your family on the water.

Design and Layout

The 222 Classic measures 22’3’’ long by 8’1’’ wide and draws a maximum draft of 2’10’’ making it a very easy boat to handle and gives you the ability to maneuver in close quarters without breaking a sweat. The boat I tested didn’t have the optional hardtop with cruise curtain, but if I were cruising anywhere warm I would most likely leave it off unless you would rather have more privacy.

The layout is simple and the basic philosophy behind this model is that you get a very easy to maintain boat that will serve you and your family for the initial step into the boating world and beyond. The hull is hand laid fiberglass with unitized construction and glassed-in bulkheads. She also features a deadrise of 21 degrees, which makes for a comfortable ride.

Features

The styling is reminiscent of older cruisers but the 222 Classic is still loaded with modern features. When I stepped aboard I was surprised at how open the cockpit was. There is plenty of room here for entertaining friends and family while out for a cruise. On the stern there is a small boarding step with retractable ladder. I found it to be a little small for my taste, and if you have small children it might pose a problem getting them up and over the stern and onto a boarding step.

Back on the transom there’s a fish well and cutting board top. This is a nice feature, but I was sorry to see that Bayliner had not put any rod holders into the gunwales. Moving inboard there are two jump seats, one on either side of the engine cover. These remove to provide access to storage underneath. From these storage hatches you can access the steering cables to port and the battery located to starboard. There are also cup holders and handrails on either side for convenience. Another nice feature that I noticed was the full fiberglass cockpit liner. This makes cleaning things up a breeze. The engine box removes easily with two latches and provides plenty of room around the 220-hp MerCruiser engine with Alpha One drive.

Seating

Further forward we find two rear facing seats that are raised and attached to the forward helm seats. There is a nice retractable footrest for comfort and below there is ample storage for life jackets and other gear. The helm seats being part of the rear facing seats allow the entire seat to turn into a sun lounger. This is the perfect spot for relaxing when at anchor.

Helm Station

Over at the helm there is plenty of room for adding extra gear and the view from the seated position is excellent. The gauges are nicely laid out and feature all one needs to keep watch on the vital ships systems including fuel gauge, oil pressure, temperature gauge, and voltmeter. Over to port the copilots seat is comfortable and there is good open storage on the side. The windshield is high and protects everyone from the elements.

There are built-in steps to port in front of the passenger that leads up to the bow. Up on the bow you will find plenty of non-skid to help hold your footing and the anchor locker and roller make dropping the hook clean and easy.

Down Below

The cabin is entered through a door next to the bow steps. It’s a simple step down into the large open space. Below you will find two large windows and a nice hatch which provide plenty of light. To port there’s a sink with faucet and fresh water perfect for washing up at the end of a long day. The V-berth has storage below and when the filler cushion is removed there is a removable table that fits in the space to provide a place to eat when the weather turns.

Over to starboard you will find the convenient closed head for an added level of comfort when aboard. The cabin also features a stereo and carbon monoxide detector. The cabin is perfect for a couple or even a small family for overnight trips to their favorite destination.

Performance Numbers

I was impressed that Bayliner has been able to pack so many features into a 22-foot boat. I was even more impressed when I took the boat out for testing. I found that the 220-hp power plant was all this boat needed. I was able to get the 222 Classic up to a top speed of 40.4 mph at 4500 rpm, and found her best cruise was 30.9 mph running at 3500 rpm. With the 55-gallon fuel tank you can expect to travel 143 miles before refueling. The boat’s generous V-hull and 21-degree deadrise helped create a soft ride over large wakes and chop. She was responsive through the turns and with her small size I found her to be extremely easy to handle while docking.

So if you’re looking to get your family into the cruising scene, but not looking to break the bank, the 222 Classic offers plenty of features at a price that is sure to make you smile.